Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos confident a strong showing in Morocco can boost their prospects ahead 2026 WC showpiece in Canada, USA & Mexico - 'A good 2025 Afcon will help us in the World Cup'

Bafana Bafana awaits the draw for the 35th edition of the Afcon, set to take place in Morocco in December 2025. Coach Hugo Broos, who led South Africa to a bronze medal in Ivory Coast, is optimistic about their prospects. The Belgian tactician, nominated for Caf Coach of the Year, highlighted the importance of testing his team against top opposition. With Fifa World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin approaching in March, Broos aims for maximum points to strengthen their qualification chances. Speaking to the media, he emphasized how competing in high-pressure tournaments can prepare the team for success at the World Cup. He remains focused on building a team ready to face global giants and raise the bar for South African football.

"Yes, because six months later there is a World Cup. I think, if we qualify for the World Cup, we can make another good AFCON that will certainly help us in the World Cup," said Broos as reported by SABC Sports.

"This is something I said when I came here, and maybe it was a little bit disrespectful to the other teams but – I don't want to play against Zimbabwe, Lesotho and [other neighbours] every time. I want to play against the big teams."

"You see what a gift that gave us that we played in Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Morocco, and we had such games in the last AFCON, and those games make us progress," he added.

"Against Morocco you have to go at 100 percent, against Algeria you have to go at 100 percent, and games like that gives you more satisfaction, and you learn and progress more.

"So therefore, AFCON 2025 in December and January will also help us if we qualify for the World Cup – it will help us have a good World Cup after that."

With several Bafana players featuring in the Caf Champions League quarterfinals, the experience at the highest level is invaluable. Mamelodi Sundowns players will also participate in the Fifa Club World Cup, exposing them to elite competition.

This aligns with Broos' vision for his players to test themselves against the world's best. These challenges will help sharpen their skills and improve the squad's cohesion. South Africa’s competitive calendar ensures steady progression toward their Afcon and World Cup goals.

The Afcon draw will determine their group stage opponents, setting the tone for the continental competition. However, all focus shifts to March, where World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin could define their path to the global stage.